Equipping fathers to live active, involved, healthy lives with their children

Gary - September 2018

This month's Featured Fit Dad is Gary, a father of three who found his own way into fitness and is now inspiring others to do the same.

Like many guys, sports played a huge role in his life until he made the transition to adulthood and ultimately fatherhood, but the fitness "bug" stuck, and now, being active is simply a way of life for Gary and his family.

What I love most about Gary's interview is how he sees the role his own fitness can play in teaching his children to be strong and confident in their own ways as they grow.

Here is Gary's story:

When did you first get into fitness?

First got into fitness in middle school/high school when I started getting more serious about playing sports like football/track. I’ve more-so been into the bodybuilding/weight lifting aspect of it seriously for the past 6 or so years.

What activities do you do to keep fit and active?

I have 3 kids! 2 of which are under 2! Haha. Honestly I am up for anything that is active, I hate sitting around doing nothing. If I’m not in the gym I like to be outside on a walk with the kids or at the park.

What is your favorite fitness memory or achievement?

A few years ago my wife and I went on a hiking trip and it was our first one together. We asked the lady at the desk which was the best route to take and when she told us she said she would not advise it as it is very strenuous. Us being hard-headed we’re all in. Needless to say about 5-6 hours later we were out of the trails with our knees buckling with every step from pure exhaustion!

What is your favorite workout?

Favorite workouts would have to a pull/push/legs bodybuilder split hitting everything 2-3x a week! Currently in an extended growth phase trying to pack on a lot of muscle. Back would have to be favorite muscle group to work!

In what ways do you hope to influence your children through fitness?

I think this is huge! If we as dads don’t, who will? The P.E. coach? I didn’t have anyone in my life to lead me into a fitness life, I had to find it myself and kind of learn as I go. Having someone there to teach me the fundamentals of fitness and its importance can be game-changing. Being able to show my son what it can do for him and his confidence and health, and being able to show and teach my daughters that women can be strong too and they should be and not to be ashamed of being a strong women.

What words of encouragement would you have for other dads out there who want to be healthy and fit?

Consistency and planning are the two biggest things. Come up with a plan and stick to it and the results will come. Don’t think of taking time to get fit as selfish and taking time away from your family. When you workout and get in better shape, you feel better about how you feel, how you look and just how you hold yourself. All these things will trickle into every other aspect and relationship of your life. Your marriage will improve, you being a father will improve and you as an employee will improve. Get it done and make it a habit.